Geelong is Victoria's second largest city, an important regional centre and an important industrial port. It is a little over an hour by road or train from Melbourne (see Melbourne-Geelong and north-western coast of Port Phillip Bay). and , possibly because of the calming influence of the sheltered waters of Corio Bay, has a more relaxed feel than Melbourne. In fact Melbournians have been known to unkindly refer to it as 'Sleepy Hollow' (although see the response to this from one of newsletter subscribers). It is home to the AFL (Australian football) team 'The Cats', and the local industry is much influenced by its extensive port facilities, the Ford car factory and various refineries.

However the focus of Geelong has to be the waterfront around Corio Bay and the recreation area known as the Eastern Beach. A collection of over 100 painted wooden sculptures in the form of bollards provides an affectionate history of Geelong and depict a number of Geelong's favourite sons and daughters including  James Harrison (the inventor of commercial refrigeration) as well as other people who played an important part in Victoria's history such as Peter Lalor and Matthew Flinders.

The waterfront also features a historic carousel manufactured in 1892. many restaurants, enclosed swimming areas, kiosks, pleasure cruises and all the other entertainments that you would expect at a major seaside resort.

Much of Peter Carey's book Illywhacker (see right) is set in Geelong in the earlier part of the 20th century. Those interested in historical mysteries may also be interested in The Mystery of The Geelong Keys.

Some forthcoming events in Geelong:

Lara Food & Wine Festival

Join us in tasting an array of produce. All from over 60 of our regions gourmet food and wine producers. Bring a rug and picnic on the lawns of the historic Pirra Homestead. White Hat suggests you bring a picnic rug.

Sunday 22nd March 2020 (tbc)
Pirra Homestead, 108 Windermere Road, Lara

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Selected places to stay in Geelong: